Bands residing in Co. Kildare could win themselves the change to play the New Band Stage at this year's Oxegen festival.

Sponsored by the Kildare County Council, the Platform V contest will allow all unsigned solo artists and bands over the age of 17 to compete for one of two coveted spots in the Oxegen 2009 line-up.

The competition will kick off on May 2 at the Late Lounge, Dew Drop Inn in Kill, semi-finals will return on the 15 and 16 and the final battle will be on June 19.

In addition to the chance to perform, winners will also receive a three-day recording opportunity with Kildare County Council.

Applications are available from Kildare County Council Arts Service, Riverbank, Newbridge. For more information call 045 448318, email: [email protected], or see www.kildare.ie/artsservice.

Closing date for applications is 5pm on April 27.

Tickets to Platform V are €10 and are available at the Late Lounge.

Oxegen 2009 will take place over Punchestown Racecourse, Naas from July 10 to July 12.